"Those are just issues of the day," Shurmur said of any potential trade. "Fun things for you guys to think about. Mark was in the meeting today."

In addition to being in the meeting room, Sanchez was also at practice on Monday for the Eagles, a place it sounds like he will be staying despite intense speculation that the Rams will try to make a move for the veteran.

"I think everyone should be interested in Mark Sanchez," Shurmur said. "I think he has done a good job and played well for us. He has won a lot of football games in the league. I've said it before, but he was sitting in the locker room at halftime with two AFC Championship games ahead. We are very glad we have him. He has added a lot to this team. He is a professional. A lot of people should want him. But we have him. So that's the reality."

Another reality, however, is that as much as the Eagles like Sanchez, he is still the backup. With quarterback Nick Foles firmly entrenched as the starter for years to come if the team has it their way, the idea of Sanchez someday taking over is a long shot. Still, the possibility of Foles going down with an injury -- something he has done in each of the last two seasons -- is enough for the team to keep Sanchez around.

"You see time and time again that the backup is thrust into a starting role. We are watching it happen in St. Louis now," Shurmur said. "Unfortunately Sam got hurt for the year, so (Shaun Hill) has to go. That's why the development of the quarterback is so crucial. Each guy needs to prepare each day like they are the starter. And then when they're not, they help the starter be as good as he can be. That is the philosophy, and it's worked well for us."

The team's ability to develop Sanchez in the short time they have had him is the main reason these rumors started. As a free agent this summer, teams were not exactly beating down the door to sign the veteran, who went 6-9 as a starter with 13 touchdowns and 18 interceptions in his last season with New York.

With the Eagles, however, Sanchez has looked like a new player, leading the second-unit on six touchdown drives and throwing just one interception.

Which is why it doesn't sound like the Eagles will be moving him anytime soon.

"We knew what he brought to the table," Shurmur said. "We knew his strengths and his weaknesses, and we thought it would fit well here. At least to this point, the way he plays, he style of play -- it translates to what we want to do. Makes good quick decisions, he's right most of the time.